The Toast Rack: Manchester’s Architectural Icon

The Toast Rack: Manchester’s Architectural Icon | Refurbishment Asbestos Survey

In September, EMS conducted a refurbishment survey of the unique structure known as the Toast Rack in Manchester. This amazing building, which has been a defining feature of the city’s skyline since its completion in 1960, was designed by Leonard Cecil Howitt.  Nicknamed the ‘Toast Rack’ due to its architectural features, this breakfast themed building is iconic against the Manchester skyline.

Originally built for the Domestic Trades College, it later became part of Manchester Polytechnic, now known as Manchester Metropolitan University.

Since being decommissioned in 2013, the Toast Rack has been poised for development, with its Grade II listed status awarded in 1998, ensuring its architectural significance is preserved.

The Importance of Refurbishment Surveys

A crucial requirement of any refurbishment project is undertaking an intrusive asbestos refurbishment survey. A refurbishment asbestos survey is designed to identify any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) within the building that may be disturbed during construction activities. The survey targets specific areas likely to be impacted by proposed works, which can sometimes encompass the entire property or site.

Identifying ACMs is essential for implementing necessary precautions to prevent accidental disturbance. The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (CAR) mandates that all ACMs must be removed prior to any refurbishment work. An intrusive asbestos survey is necessary to detect these materials before work begins. Conducting a thorough refurbishment asbestos survey not only ensures compliance with CAR 2012 but also prioritises the health and safety of workers and the public.

Key Steps in the Asbestos Survey Process:

1. Defining the Scope of Survey: The first step involves determining which areas of the building will be surveyed based on the scope of proposed works.
2. The Survey & Intrusive Sampling: Asbestos surveyors will attend site to undertake the survey in a methodical manner. Any materials identified as suspected to contain asbestos are collected and sent for analysis in our accredited laboratory.
3. Reporting: A detailed asbestos report is generated following the survey, outlining the presence, location, and condition of any identified ACMs including photographic evidence of each sample taken and an asbestos register.
4. Action Recommendations: Based on the survey findings, recommendations are made for managing or safely removing any ACMs if identified.

The refurbishment of the Toast Rack represents a revival of a historic building which has been a familiar icon in Manchester into a site suitable for the 21^st Century, marrying its rich architectural history with modern development opportunities.

As this iconic structure prepares for its next chapter, EMS look forward to seeing the future of this building.

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